The Level 3: Award in Education and Training (AET) course is an introductory qualification aimed at those who want to work as teachers, trainers, tutors, and instructors.
It provides the fundamental knowledge and skills needed to plan, deliver, and review effective teaching and learning. But what opportunities does completing the AET course open up for your career progression?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the different options you have to continue advancing your education and training expertise after achieving the AET qualification.
An Overview of the AET Course
First, let’s quickly recap what the AET course covers. This level 3 qualification is suitable for aspiring teachers and trainers in various contexts, including:
- Further education colleges
- Private training organizations
- Voluntary sector organizations
- Public sector settings
- Apprenticeship programs
The course introduces key topics such as understanding roles and responsibilities, planning inclusive teaching sessions, delivering engaging learning activities, and carrying out assessments. It is delivered through a blend of theory and practical teaching experience. The total qualification time is around 120 hours, with assessment via portfolio building and microteaching sessions.
Completing the AET course and assessment provides a solid foundation for those looking to get into teaching and training. But it is still an introductory-level qualification. So the key question is – what are the progression opportunities after achieving this entry-level award?
Why Is Progression Important for Education and Training Professionals?
Progressing to higher levels of qualification and responsibility is important in education and training careers for several reasons:
- Enhancing knowledge and skills – More advanced qualifications allow you to expand your subject knowledge and teaching methods, benefiting your learners.
- Building confidence and competence – Progressing through qualifications develops your skills and confidence as an effective teacher or trainer.
- Meeting stakeholder needs – Learners, employers, and regulators expect high standards, which higher qualifications demonstrate.
- Career and salary progression – Further qualifications open up senior and leadership roles and are linked to higher salaries.
So there is a clear incentive for education and training professionals to continue gaining qualifications and advancing their expertise. Now let’s look at the options after the AET course.
Entry Requirements for Progressing from the AET
To embark on further education and training qualifications after the AET, you will typically need:
- A good standard of written and spoken English
- Relevant subject specialism knowledge or occupational experience
- Access to teaching/training practice opportunities
- Support from a mentor/supervisor
- Completion of the AET assessment requirements
Meeting these entry criteria will ensure you are prepared and eligible to succeed on higher-level courses. Check the specific requirements of your chosen progression route.
Courses and Qualifications After the AET
There are several qualifications commonly taken by educators after completing the AET:
Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training (CET)
- Covers planning, delivering, assessing and evaluating teaching sessions
- Includes microteaching assessed sessions
- Builds on the AET to confirm occupational competence
Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training (DET)
- Focuses on designing, managing, and quality assuring training programs
- Develops skills to coordinate education and training initiatives
- Progresses teaching expertise to an advanced level
Level 5 Diploma in Teaching Mathematics and Numeracy
- Specialist qualification for maths and numeracy teachers
- Covers functional skills, GCSE, and adult numeracy teaching
- Enhances subject-specific teaching methods and strategies
Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice
- Develops expertise in monitoring and improving assessment quality
- Covers planning assessment, sampling, standardising, and supporting assessors
- Valuable for education managers and leaders
Benefits and Challenges of Further Qualifications
Progressing to these higher-level qualifications has many benefits but also some challenges to be aware of:
Benefits
- Gaining an advanced recognized teaching qualification
- Expanding your training scope and capabilities
- Accessing more senior job opportunities
- Increased earning potential and salary prospects
Challenges
- Managing work-study-life balance with the course workload
- Meeting demanding academic and practical requirements
- Investing significant time for learning, assessment, and placement hours
- Funding the costs of fees, resources, and taking time off work
Choosing Your Next Course or Qualification
When deciding what your next step after the AET should be, here are some tips:
- Identify gaps in your expertise, knowledge, and experience to address
- Research the course outline, structure, delivery methods, and assessments
- Compare course providers on aspects like fees, location, tutors, and reputation
- Consider your personal and professional goals and choose the qualification that aligns best
- Seek advice from employers, mentors, peers, and the course providers
Preparing for and Succeeding in Your Chosen Course
To set yourself up for success on your next education and training qualification, try these preparation strategies:
- Review the requirements and expectations in detail before starting
- Create a study schedule and set realistic, measurable goals
- Engage fully with course materials, activities, and placements
- Seek regular feedback from tutors, mentors, and peers
- Reflect on your learning and apply insights to your teaching practice
- Make use of available student support services
Our Final Word
The Level 3 Award in Education and Training provides an introduction to teaching and training for aspiring educators. But there are many opportunities to progress to higher qualifications and more advanced roles within the field.
Choosing an appropriate next step, like the Level 4 CET or Level 5 DET, enables you to enhance your knowledge, teaching scope, job prospects, and career potential. Take some time to decide what progression route aligns best to your goals.
Then invest fully in preparing for and completing your next education and training course. Keep climbing the ladder to become an even more skilled, accomplished and impactful teaching professional.
If the AET course has piqued your curiosity, or you’re keen to delve into more details, feel free to browse our website or get in touch with us directly via:
Space House, Abbey Road, Park Royal, London, NW10 7SU
Tel: 02089658255 Fax: 02089616454
info@advancetraininguk.com, www.advancetraininguk.com.
Be proactive and Book now for the AET course today, taking the first step towards your aspiration of being a remarkable teacher or trainer.